Reflecting on lessons from CSB+SJU

As we end the semester, a lot of students will be bombarded with the same question that’s asked after every final essay, project and test: “What did you learn this year in classes?”

This question was asked in my Native Food Sovereignty class on Monday, and we had the opportunity to share what topics interested us over the semester. Some talked about the unknown tragedies of what happened to a lot of tribes within the process of colonialism, and some talked about the adverse formation of boarding schools. I want to ask you all the same question, but I wanted to switch it up a little bit. What did you learn this year while being at CSB+SJU? Be the contemplator.

The motto for St. John’s is to “put on the armor of light,” and the motto for St. Ben’s is “Let your light shine.” Did you know that armor weighs between 40-50 pounds? I know, heavy as hell. This is the weight that falls on the students of CSB+SJU. It’s a huge responsibility, but someone has to do it. That’s the call for each of you. As you all leave this semester, think about the light that others have shined in your lives. Think about the amazing professors that have helped along the way, the staff in our dining halls that greet us with comfort and hospitality, the administrators that not only see you but hear you and the friends that have come along with you on this journey. The lessons are hard, brutal and discouraging at times, but remember your purpose and what this time here was for. Be the light.

Who said this would be easy? No one, of course. It’s college, but these institutions are unique in their own way. I found that community is what you make of it, and I feel that these campuses make room for that. My aunt told me over the phone that God doesn’t just place us in situations for no reason. There’s growth that has to be done, lessons that must be learned (whether good or bad) and there’s new things that must be seen. No one’s asking for perfection. All that’s required is that you tried your best. Did you try your best? Be your own cheerleader. You made it. One of my favorite cards in my tarot deck is “The Fool.” Look them up. They are you. That’s what life is. Be the fool.

I’m still unpacking the things I’ve learned here while in Collegeville (and St. Joe). I picked up on these simple but difficult steps to succeed, however. The wind may throw you to the floor, but you better get back up again. The snow piles up on top of itself and makes it hard to move, but you better walk anyway. The heat makes you tired and exhausted, but you better run to the lake so you can dip your tired feet in the water.

All of these things are essential while being at CSB+SJU. Now’s not the time to be weary, but it is the time of doing. I leave with you the words of my late mother Jennifer, “Do not grow weary in well doing!” Congratulations to the Class of 2023 and the incoming first-years of CSB+SJU. May the light continue to shine through you.